In a significant stride towards safer ammonia bunkering, a recent study published in the journal *Energies* has shed light on the effectiveness of safeguards for ammonia tank trucks used in bunkering operations. Led by Young-Do Jo of MS Gas Co., Ltd., based in Busan, South Korea, the research delves into the critical aspects of risk management and safety measures that could pave the way for broader adoption of ammonia as a marine fuel.
Ammonia bunkering via tank trucks is gaining traction as a flexible and efficient method to refuel vessels, especially in ports lacking extensive infrastructure. However, safety concerns have been a stumbling block. The study focuses on analyzing safeguards designed to reduce the frequency of ammonia releases and mitigate potential leak damage during bunkering operations.
Key findings reveal that implementing safeguards such as breakaway couplings and dry disconnect couplings (DDC) in the flexible hose can significantly reduce the probability of hose failure per bunkering operation. “If the breakaway coupling and DDC are implemented as safeguards in the flexible hose, and maintenance is performed in accordance with ANSI/CGA G-2.1, the probability of hose failure per bunkering operation will be reduced from approximately 10−5 to 10−7,” states the study.
Moreover, the research highlights the importance of excess flow valves (EFVs) and automatic emergency shut-off valves (ESVs) in limiting the consequences of leaks. The safety integrity level (SIL) of the automatic ESV should be at least 2 or higher, and it should be activated within a few seconds after a gas leak begins.
The study also examines the individual risk associated with bunkering operations. Under the worst weather conditions during the day, the probit value (Pr) depends on both the amount of ammonia released and the distance from the release point, with the distance having a greater effect on fatality than the amount of ammonia. The analysis concludes that, with these safeguards in place, the individual risk at a location 20 meters from the bunker site can be reduced to the lower limit of the As Low As Reasonably Practicable (ALARP) zone.
For maritime professionals, these findings present a clear path towards safer ammonia bunkering. The implementation of these safeguards not only enhances safety but also opens up commercial opportunities. As the maritime industry increasingly turns to ammonia as a viable alternative fuel to reduce carbon emissions, the ability to safely and efficiently bunker ammonia will be crucial.
The study, published in *Energies*, offers a robust framework for risk-based analysis of safeguards in ammonia bunkering. It underscores the importance of proactive safety measures and provides a roadmap for the maritime sector to embrace ammonia as a cleaner fuel option.
As Young-Do Jo of MS Gas Co., Ltd. puts it, “The safety and regulations surrounding ammonia use in bunkering are paramount to its adoption.” With the insights from this research, the maritime industry is better equipped to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that ammonia bunkering presents.